Question

I’m trying to be able to add a query to my js file that will change the versions.

For example:

<script type="text/javascript" src="myjavascript.js?v=1.0.0"></script>

I know this is possible because I seen other sites do this.

Thanks for help.

Answer 1

What you’re most likely seeing is a server-side language such as ASP, PHP, etc. “swoop in” and handle the change, then render the contents out as if nothing has happened. Basically, if you can relate to PHP:

<?php
  $v = $_GET['v']; // yes I know--shame on me for no validation
  header('Content-Type: text/javascript');

  include('js/myjavascript-'.$v.'.js');

The other purpose is, as Nathan mentioned, for avoiding caching issues. But, if you see the script’s contents changing based on this GET variable it’s most likely a server-side language doing so nondescript.